Ancient and modern laminated composites — from the Great Pyramid of Gizeh to Y2K

Laminated metal composites (LMCs) have been cited in antiquity; for example, an iron laminate that may date as far back as 2750 BC was found in the Great Pyramid in Gizeh in 1837. A laminated shield containing bronze, tin, and gold layers is described in detail by Homer. Well-known examples of steel laminates, such as an Adze blade, dating to 400 BC can be found in the literature. The Japanese sword is a laminated composite at several different levels and Merovingian blades were composed of laminated steels. Other examples are also available, including composites from China, Thailand, Indonesia, Germany, Britain, Belgium, France, and Persia. The concept of lamination to provide improved properties has also found expression in modern materials. Of particular interest is the development of laminates including high-carbon and low-carbon layers. These materials have unusual properties that are of engineering interest; they are similar to ancient welded Damascus steels. The manufacture of collectable knives, labeled “welded Damascus,” has also been a focus of contemporary knife makers. Additionally, in the former Soviet Union, laminated composite designs have been used in engineering applications. Each of the above areas will be briefly reviewed, and some of the metallurgical principles will be described that underlie improvement in properties by lamination. Where appropriate, links are made between these property improvements and those that may have been present in ancient artifacts.